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Westfield by Grade School:
Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
September 19, 2023
Cranford Pumpkin Spice Tour 2023
Lattes. Candles. Donuts. Bread. Cheesecake. Oatmeal. ‘Tis the season for all things pumpkin spice. Customers go crazy for this seasonal spice every fall. And companies want to keep up. Can you believe Hefty even offers pumpkin spice trash bags? To celebrate this autumnal seasoning, downtown Cranford hosts the Cranford Pumpkin Spice Tour.
What: Cranford Pumpkin Spice Tour 2023
Where: Eastman Clock Plaza (North Union Ave)
When: Saturday, September 23rd, Noon to 4 pm
Admission: $5/person
Contact: Downtown Cranford (908) 709-7208
Cranford Pumpkin Spice Tour 2023
Looking for something fun to do with the family? Celebrate the final day of summer and welcome in the Fall at the Pumpkin Spice Tour in Downtown Cranford. Enjoy a live pumpkin carving. Visit various stores around the downtown area for a special tasting tour. Listen to live music. Get your face painted. It’s fun for everyone.
You must purchase a bracelet to participate in the Pumpkin Spice Tour. They only cost $5 each. Simply visit the Downtown Cranford Eventbrite website here to purchase your bracelet today. Then, on the day of the event, go to the Eastman Clock Plaza to pick up your bracelet and your map of businesses participating in the tour. It’s that simple.
AddamsFest 2023
Just a reminder (as if you needed one). Next month is AddamsFest 2023. Registration for the Haunt My House ends on October 1st or when all 50 positions are filled up. They fill up quickly, so you need to act quickly if you plan on participating. Tickets for the Morticia and Gomez Masquerade Ball are already sold out. The first round of ticket sales for Charlie’s Ale Garden happened on Wednesday, September 20th. If you missed out, you get another chance to try next Wednesday, September 27th. Log on right at 7 p.m. to buy yours. Otherwise, you must wait until next year. Good luck!
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
September 15, 2023
AddamsFest 2023 Info
For those keeping track, we only have 16 more days until October. And around Westfield, October means only one thing…AddamsFest 2023! Yes, Halloween moves over ever-so-slightly to usher everything Addams family-related. And it all makes for a scary good time!
AddamsFest 2023 Info
Arguably Westfield’s most famous resident, Charles Addams made spooky entertaining through his cartoons from the 1930s to his death and beyond. To celebrate, organizers put together several fun activities throughout October.
Haunt Your House 2023
Registration for Haunt Your House opened up last Sunday, September 10th. To accommodate more people, organizers opened up two routes this year. Only work seen from the street qualifies for judging in this contest. Registration is only open to the first 25 people for daytime haunts and the first 25 people for nighttime haunts. So if you’re interested in participating, you need to sign up right away. Registration closes on October 1st or when the limit is reached (whichever comes first). You must decorate your home and submit a photo of the completed work no later than October 8th. Winners will be determined by the number of votes received. Each category includes a first, second, and third-place winner. Good luck.
Morticia & Gomez’s Masquerade Ball
This year, the ball takes place on what else? Friday the 13th, of course. This event at the James Ward Mansion proves to be one of the most popular each year. Therefore, it sells out quickly. Tickets went on sale last Tuesday (the 12th). If you’re lucky, there still should be a few left.
The Gallery on Elm Street
On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from October 13th to October 29th, The Gallery at 122 Elm Street features works of art from Charles Addams and Edward Gorey. Chief on display will be the duo’s Wild Curious Creatures and the Addams Animal Menagerie with works of art inspired by Charles Addams’ cartoons.
Wild Walk Pet Parade
From 1 pm to 3 pm on Saturday, October 14th, dress your favorite mutt or kitty-cat in their best costume. Then parade them through downtown Westfield. Best costumed pet wins a prize. You might even meet your next furry friend here. Several animals will be available for adoption.
Lantern Cemetery Tours
For one night only, the Presbyterian Church offers special lantern cemetery tours. That night (October 14th), tours start at 5 pm and run every 10 minutes until 6:30 pm.
Addams Family Fun Day
On Sunday, October 15th, Quimby Ave transforms into an Addams-inspired wonderland. Decorate pumpkins with the doctors at Atlantic Medical Group Primary Care. Or watch the experts show off their skills at the Maniac Pumpkin Carvers’ demonstration. Local youth bands perform live all day long on the Atlantic Health Youth Stage. And listen to Westfield’s own author Peter Lyons read his children’s book Tonight, Tonight is Halloween every hour on the half-hour from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Charlie’s Ale Garden
The Westfield Armory becomes Charlie’s Ale Garden on Saturday, October 21st. Saved by the 90s headlines the evening’s live entertainment, with several other local bands playing before them. Food trucks provide food for purchase while you drink wine and/or beer provided by the Harvest Restaurant Group. This year, tickets will be sold in two separate rounds: first on September 20th at 7 pm and second on September 27th at 7 pm. Organizers are trying to get permission to use the grounds outside of the armory as well. If that happens, they plan on opening up more tickets to purchase in the days leading up to the event. Check back on the AddamsFest website when the two rounds open up. This is one of the most popular events of the entire month. Tickets sell out right away each year. So, make sure you mark your calendars and check in early.
Addams Family House on Mindowaskin Pond
All throughout October, a miniature version of the Addams Family house floats out on Mindowaskin Pond. Visitors are welcome to come any time to take a photo with it.
Addams Family-Inspired Murals
Come see the murals created by talented local artists at the Central Ave Underpass all month long as well. This ever-changing canvas showcases a variety of artwork throughout the year. But the ode to Charles Addams’ beloved work only lasts through the end of October.
Wicked Windows of Westfield
Another fun and free chance to celebrate Westfield’s native son is by wandering around downtown Westfield and looking at the Wicked Windows set up in shops around town. Several shops set up Addams Family-inspired displays in their windows for the entire month of October. Once you see the displays outside, head inside to see what frighteningly great deals you may find inside.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
September 7, 2023
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Hometown Hero Banner Program
On November 11th, we celebrate Veterans Day. On this day, we honor all of the brave men and women who fought for our country. Scotch Plains and Fanwood want families and friends to show special recognition for their loved ones with their own banner. Right now, Scotch Plains and Fanwood are accepting submissions for their Hometown Hero Banner Program. Do you have someone you want to submit for this special honor?
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Hometown Hero Banner Program
Between now and September 25th, anyone can submit the name of their beloved veteran to be a part of the Hometown Hero Banner Program. The only requirements are that the veteran is either a currently enrolled or former member (either living or deceased) of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Army Air Corps, Merchant Marines, or the Women Air Force Pilots who served during World War II. The service member must also have been a resident of either Scotch Plains or Fanwood at some point.
All you need to do is submit their name, rank, and branch of service they serve/served, including years of service, online here. Organizers also ask that you include a photo of them (preferably in uniform). This photo along with their other info will then be included on a banner hung around the city on Veterans Day. This year marks the last time that this program accepts submissions. Anyone submitted and accepted in years past will continue to have their banners flown for Veterans Day. What an amazing way to acknowledge your appreciation for the sacrifice your loved one made or currently makes for our country. Consider submitting them for their very own Hometown Hero banner this year.
Westfield FestiFall Street Fair 2023
Just a heads up. This weekend is the FestiFall Street Fair in Westfield. From 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday, September 10th, downtown Westfield along Central Ave fills up with dozens of food, craft, retail, and other vendors to welcome the Fall season. This is most definitely a family event. Let your children expend some energy in the free Kids Zone. They can ride the rides and bounce and/or slide on the inflatables set up there. Just make sure you pay attention to the traffic around Central Ave during the fair. It will get diverted starting early Saturday morning and going well into the evening the same day. Take the family out on Saturday for Scotch Plains’ 2nd Street Block Party and then spend Sunday in Westfield for FestiFall.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
September 1, 2023
Scotch Plains 2nd Street Block Party 2023
Many new people and businesses have moved into the Scotch Plains area over the past few years. These businesses brought renewed energy to the 2nd Street business district. To celebrate these wonderful local companies, the Township of Scotch Plains decided to host the very first Scotch Plains 2nd Street Block Party and Car Show.
What: Scotch Plains 2nd Street Block Party 2023
Where: E 2nd Street between Park Ave & Hunter Ave
When: Saturday, September 9th, 1 pm to 5 pm
Admission: FREE
Contact: Margaret Heisey with Township of Scotch Plains (908) 322-6700 x314 or via email
Scotch Plains 2nd Street Block Party 2023
From 1 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, September 9th, E 2nd Street shuts down to automotive traffic between Park Ave and Hunter Ave. Instead, the streets fill up with pedestrians and amazing deals from local businesses and organizations. Come see live demonstrations. Enter one of the multiple contests and, hopefully, win a giveaway. Sample some amazing food. See some fabulous art on display. Talk to one of the many consultants on-site to learn more about services provided by our East 2nd Street businesses. Then, of course, there is the car show. You definitely won’t want to miss that. If Mother Nature decides not to cooperate with this year’s event, organizers plan on hosting a rain date on Sunday, September 10th.
Do you own a classic car that you want to show off at the block party? Now’s your chance to shine. Contact Bob LaCosta by calling (908) 322-6700 x308 or emailing him at blacosta@scotchplainsnj.com.
Businesses You’ll See at the Block Party
- 2 Much Sauce
- Best Friend Thrift Shop
- The Bike Stand
- BISC Pottery Studio
- CSM Fitness Center
- The Details Barber Shop & Shave Parlor
- DiNizo Pools
- Fanwood-Scotch Plains Service League Thrift Shop
- First Option Juice Hub & Salad Bar
- Health & Fitness Professionals
- Joan Marie Photography|The Studio
- Lifestyle Studio Barber Shop
- The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts
- No. 1 Chinese Restaurant
- Pat’s American Butcher Shop
- Pizza Brothers
- Savory Selections Catering
- Scotch Plains Medical Center
- Simply Groomed (pet grooming)
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
August 25, 2023
Solar Charging Benches Installed in Downtown Westfield
Westfield takes “going green” to a whole new level. Let’s say you decide to go shopping in the downtown area. You plan on meeting up with your bestie at the Rock ‘n Joe for a cup of coffee. But you can’t remember what time you agreed on. You pull out your phone and realize that your battery may die in the next few minutes. What do you do? Well, if you find yourself near one of the newly installed solar charging benches, simply sit down, plug in, and wait.
Solar Charging Benches Installed in Downtown Westfield
That’s right. Downtown Westfield now includes two solar charging benches with two more set for installation soon. Plus, if these benches prove valuable to the public at large, more benches may be installed at a later date.
For now, you may find the initial two benches set up at Elm and North. Each bench includes dual USB ports. The Downtown Westfield Corporation plans on installing two more benches at the South Ave train station soon. A state grant paid for the $11,600 cost of these initial four benches from Sun Charge Systems. It’s just one way that the City hopes to bring a clean alternative to traditional electric charging and add convenience to local citizens and visitors alike.
Scotch Plains Freecycle 2023 Event
Another way to reduce our carbon footprint (as well as trash thrown into local landfills) is by participating in the Scotch Plains Freecycle Event. If you find yourself with extra children’s toys, old books, small kitchen appliances, puzzles, games, or other gently used items, register for the freecycle event. Schedule a time to drop these items off at Brookside Park early in the morning on Saturday, September 9th. Then, come back later in the morning to search through other people’s donations. Everything will be available to take absolutely free of charge, too.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
August 18, 2023
Westfield School Supply Drive
Westfield students begin their 2023/2024 school year on September 7th. As most parents know, school supplies can be expensive. For some Westfield area households, that brings an additional strain to their finances. If you want to help ease their burden, consider donating to the Westfield School Supply Drive.
- What: Westfield School Supply Drive
- Where: Various Locations Around Westfield (see below)
- When: 8 am to 5 pm now through August 20th
Westfield School Supply Drive
Local high school student Jillian Almendral strives to make a difference in our community with her volunteer work. Since June, she has spearheaded a local school supply drive to benefit those less fortunate kids in our area. Supplies needed include backpacks, notebooks, composition books, #2 pencils, pencil cases, pencil sharpeners, erasers, folders, pens, highlighters, crayons, markers, calculators, glue, child-safe scissors, and rulers. They request that all items donated be new (or gently used when it comes to backpacks). They also accept gift cards for Amazon or Visa. New laptops, tablets, and headphones would also be greatly appreciated. All supplies will be donated to Jersey Cares for distribution where needed.
Drop-Off Locations
* Westfield Memorial Library (550 E Broad St)
* Westfield Memorial Pool (713 Cumberland St)
* Westfield Area YMCA (220 Clark St or 422 E Broad St)
* Westfield High School (550 Dorian Rd)
Tax-Holiday for NJ School Supply Shoppers
Every year, New Jersey waives sales tax for back-to-school supplies for a ten-day period. This year, it falls between August 26th and September 4th. Unfortunately, that timeframe comes after the school supply drive takes place in Westfield. But it still provides a bit of relief for parents getting their children ready for the new school year. For a complete list of these items, please visit the NJ Division of Taxation website here.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
August 11, 2023
Scotch Plains Freecycle 2023
Feel like getting a jump on your spring cleaning? Want to clear out the clutter in your home before Christmas? Let your trash become another man’s treasure at the Scotch Plains Freecycle 2023 event.
- What: Scotch Plains Freecycle 2023
- Where: Brookside Park (1255 Hetfield Ave)
- When: Saturday, September 9th from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Admission: FREE
- Contact: Scotch Plains Department of Parks & Recreation (908) 322-6700 ext 223 or via email
Scotch Plains Freecycle 2023
Have your kids outgrown their toys? Did you redecorate your home but don’t know what to do with your old stuff? Are your shelves brimming with old books that need a new home? Don’t toss them to the curb. Bring it all to the Freecycle event. If Mother Nature decides not to cooperate on September 9th, organizers set a rain date of September 10th.
For efficiency, you need to register on Scotch Plains’ Community Pass website. Choose a time slot in which to drop off your items. Acceptable items to donate include books, toys, games, puzzles, sports equipment, small appliances, kitchenware, and holiday decorations. No glass or bicycles, please. All items must be in good condition and working properly or else they will be turned away.
Once everything gets dropped off and categorized/organized appropriately, the shopping begins. From 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, the public is welcome to look through all donated materials and take whatever they want home with them. Not only does this keep them from piling up in our landfills, but they are offered absolutely free of charge. Can it get any better than that? You don’t even have to be a Scotch Plains resident to participate. All are welcome to join.
Scotch Plains DOGust Celebration
Scotch Plains Township’s Freecycle event doesn’t take place until September. But the DOGust Celebration happens this weekend. Bring your pooch to Jerseyland Park between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm for some family-friendly fun in the sun.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
Local Events •
August 4, 2023
Scotch Plains DOGust Celebration 2023
Who went to the Westfield Night Out Event on Tuesday? Did you like it? Is it something you would recommend to others? I think it’s wonderful because it lets us get to know our neighbors better as well as our neighborhood helpers. Another fun community event you might want to put on your calendar is the Scotch Plains DOGust Celebration.
- What: Scotch Plains DOGust Celebration 2023
- Where: Jerseyland Park (2377 Richmond St)
- When: Saturday, August 12th from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Contact: Scotch Plains Recreation Department (908) 322-6700 x223
Scotch Plains DOGust Celebration 2023
Come praise your favorite four-legged furry friends at the DOGust Celebration. Specifically, this event celebrates all locally rescued and adopted dogs in the Scotch Plains area. K9 Resorts hosts this fun family-friendly/pet-friendly event. They plan on handing out treats (of course) and plan on offering tons of fun activities for both humans and dogs. Since they expect temperatures to run pretty high, they also offer a spectacular cool-off zone for everyone as well. Additionally, several local organizations will be on hand to provide guests with helpful information and tools about caring for our precious furry family members. Plus, there will be a donation drive on-site.
K9 Resorts provides your pet with a luxury experience in daycare. They also offer high-class boarding services. Socialization is important for pets as well as people. Doggy daycare at K9 Resorts allows your pets to interact with other dogs in a safe, well-supervised environment. Check out K9 Resorts today.
Registration Information
While organizers provide all of this fun absolutely free of charge, they ask that you register ahead of time. Only one dog is allowed per human. You must provide proof of rabies vaccination when you sign up for DOGust. To register your pooch, please visit the Scotch Plains Community Pass website here.
Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Westfield, NJ Luxury Homes
